Selecting a tool platform can be just as challenging as deciding on a house purchase, as it often feels like a lasting commitment. Nevertheless, it is possible for two tool platforms to coexist. In my workshop, I utilize both Milwaukee’s M12 and Ryobi’s 18V ONE+ systems, and I’m here to explain how I choose which tools to use for specific tasks.
The Tools I Prefer Are Usually Milwaukee
When it comes to power tools, Milwaukee’s collection is definitely my go-to. Having used both Milwaukee and Ryobi throughout my adult life, along with my father’s Ryobi tools during my childhood, I have built a substantial familiarity with both brands.
The tool I reach for most frequently in my workshop is likely a Milwaukee. While I only own Milwaukee tools in the 12V category, this hasn’t impacted my projects significantly.
Milwaukee tools feel more comfortable and manageable in my hands; they are compact and provide an excellent user experience without unnecessary weight. This preference is why I always gravitate toward Milwaukee first—they simply suit my needs better.
Although my Milwaukee tools utilize a lower 12V system compared to Ryobi’s 18V, it doesn’t concern me. They are the tools I depend on the most and have withstood considerable wear while still offering the torque and power necessary without being overly bulky.
Moreover, Ryobi lacks an extensive 12V tool selection. While they do offer some 4V options, the majority of their lineup consists of 18V, 40V, or 80V tools, making smaller alternatives scarce.
Ryobi’s Lineup Offers Greater Variety
Often More Affordable for Occasional Use
So, why do I keep Ryobi tools if I favor Milwaukee? The primary reason is cost; Ryobi tools are generally more affordable than those from Milwaukee. I frequently find refurbished Ryobi items at Direct Tools and come across good deals on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or during sales at major retailers.
I keep Ryobi tools for two main reasons: they often deliver slightly more power than my Milwaukee 12V tools, and they are much cheaper for one-off use.
For instance, Milwaukee offers an M12 caulking gun for $179, while Ryobi’s 18V version costs only $84—almost $100 less. Another comparison shows that the Milwaukee M12 18-gauge brad nailer is priced at $279 (though it can often be found for $229), whereas Ryobi’s 18V brad nailer retails for $149 at full price.
Both tools serve the same purpose, yet one is bulkier and significantly more economical. Hence, for infrequent tools like these, I prefer the budget-friendly Ryobi option.
Additionally, for high-powered tools, it’s generally more cost-effective to choose Ryobi. Tools like larger impact wrenches for automotive tasks are cheaper from Ryobi than Milwaukee. While the build quality may not match that of Milwaukee, for limited use, Ryobi is superior to budget brands like Hart or Hyper Tough.
Avoiding Multiple Battery Systems in My Workshop
Numerous Tool Brands Create Compatibility Issues
With a plethora of tool brands available, each with its own battery specifications, it can become unwieldy. From Ryobi’s 18V and Bosch’s 12V to DeWalt’s 20V MAX and Kobalt’s 24V, the choices are extensive.
I’ve seen workshops cluttered with multiple chargers due to various battery brands being used. For example, someone might have a Ryobi caulk gun, a DeWalt drill, and a track saw from Festool, leading to a disjointed setup.
This lack of cohesion can hinder productivity, despite the functionality of the tools and batteries. Rather than subscribing to such a complex system, I’ve established two main battery platforms—Milwaukee 12V and Ryobi 18V. In the future, I might transition to Milwaukee’s 18V system while keeping some Ryobi tools for niche tasks, but for now, I’m sticking with these two.
It’s worth noting that when I mention “primary battery platforms,” I do have a few tools outside of Milwaukee 12V and Ryobi 18V. These are usually items that I acquired at a low cost or that serve a specific function.
For instance, I own a Greenworks 40V leaf blower that was a gift; it operates with a single battery dedicated to one tool. Similarly, I have a DongCheng 20V drill that works efficiently as an indoor option due to its cohesive design. Again, it’s tailored for a specific purpose.
I’s highly unlikely that I would invest in another battery platform unless it served a very distinct need. Buying a single tool isn’t justifiable unless it’s completely unavailable in my current systems.
Ensure the Battery Platform Meets Your Needs Before Committing
Choosing a power tool ultimately hinges on the battery platform you prefer to support. My initial choice was Milwaukee’s M12 due to promotional offers at the time, and later, I added the Ryobi 18V kit when I was ready.
Now, I have a dual setup that works perfectly for me. Over the years, I’ve identified my specific needs, and my system now reflects that. Both Milwaukee and Ryobi tools can certainly coexist in a workshop, provided they are assigned distinct roles, which is precisely how I’ve organized my tools.
